Born Aug. 15, 1922, in Port Huron, Mich., Ben was the oldest child of Abraham and Beulah (Broadstone) Joseph.

During World War II, Ben served in the Army as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division.

On June 30, 1962, Ben married Kay Wieland in Bay City. Kay, his wife of over 50 years, survives.

Ben's career began in his family business, Normandy Dress Co., in Bay City. He later moved to Tecumseh to work at Fisher Body in sewing machine repair where he retired in 1984 with 20 years of service. After retiring, Ben continued repairing industrial sewing machines independently. He enjoyed working on projects in his garage, target shooting and fishing. Ben attended Bethany Assembly of God.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by their children, Laura Joseph of Adrian and Lisa Wellinski of Westland; grandson, Joe Wellinski; and sister, Mary (John) Cambron, of Novi.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Raymond and Norman Joseph.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013, at Wagley Funeral Home with pastors Steve Samonek and Ron Sparks officiating. Burial will follow at Brookside Cemetery in Tecumseh. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013, from 2 to 5 p.m.

Contributions in memory of Ben may be made to the Christian Mission or Wounded Warrior Project. Online condolences are welcome at wagleyfuneralhome.com.